A recent report by MxD (Manufacturing x Digital) and the National Center for Cybersecurity in Manufacturing, supported by the Department of Defense, highlights a critical need for the U.S. manufacturing sector to bolster its cybersecurity defenses. The study, titled “Behind the Firewall,” sheds light on the sector’s cybersecurity readiness and unveils a concerning trend of manufacturers overestimating their capabilities.
In today’s digital age, securing U.S. manufacturing has become a top economic and national security priority, given that the manufacturing industry is one of the most frequently targeted sectors globally for cyber-attacks. With the looming threat of cyber intrusions, businesses face unique challenges in safeguarding their operations against geopolitical risks. The report offers valuable insights and recommendations for manufacturers to enhance their cyber resilience in the face of growing threats.
One of the key findings of the survey is that a significant portion of manufacturers exhibit a false sense of confidence in their ability to prevent and respond to cyber risks. While 76% of respondents believe their organizations are equipped to handle cyber threats, only 34% have comprehensive system security plans (SSPs) in place—a crucial cybersecurity measure essential for compliance. Additionally, just 43% of manufacturers have a designated cybersecurity leader, such as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or Director of Cybersecurity.
The data also reveals a noticeable gap in cybersecurity leadership between large and small-to-medium-sized manufacturers. While 88% of large manufacturers with 500 or more employees have dedicated cybersecurity leaders, only 35% of smaller manufacturers have such positions. Despite these challenges, there is a positive outlook as 82% of manufacturers plan to increase cybersecurity spending in the upcoming budget cycle, indicating a growing awareness of the need to strengthen defenses against cyber threats.
Berardino Baratta, CEO of MxD, emphasized the importance of fortifying cybersecurity across the manufacturing sector to ensure resilience in the face of evolving threats. He pointed out the risks inherent in overconfidence, stressing that all manufacturers, regardless of size, are vulnerable to cyber-attacks. Michael Tanji, Director of Cybersecurity at MxD, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber incidents targeting the manufacturing industry.
The report underscores the critical need for manufacturers to allocate additional resources to enhance their cybersecurity infrastructure. By segmenting research results based on vertical sectors and company size, the study provides valuable insights that can guide the development of tailored tools and resources to address cybersecurity needs at all levels of the manufacturing sector. This targeted approach enables MxD to create effective solutions, such as cyber playbooks and training guides, that address specific industry challenges.
As MxD celebrates its 10-year anniversary, the release of this report underscores the urgent call to bolster U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and resilience. Through its public-private partnerships, MxD plays a pivotal role in convening manufacturers to collaborate on protective measures for domestic supply chains against cybersecurity threats. By accelerating digital adoption, empowering the workforce, and modernizing supply chains, MxD aims to advance economic prosperity and national security through technology innovation and cybersecurity preparedness.
MxD serves as the National Center for Cybersecurity in Manufacturing, designated by the Department of Defense, and remains committed to enhancing U.S. manufacturing competitiveness through cutting-edge technologies and strategic partnerships. To learn more about MxD and its initiatives, visit mxdusa.org.